Castor Oil--Why it's been used for thousands of years

For centuries, at the first sign of illness, many parents and grandparents would immediately turn to giving their children castor oil, either topically or internally, to naturally boost immune function and speed up healing.

Folk healers worldwide have also used it to treat a wide variety of health conditions for thousands of years. For example, the reputed benefits of castor oil goes as far back as the ancient Egyptians, who used it to treat eye irritations and as a powerful natural skin care remedy.

It also has deep roots in India, where it’s considered to be a skin-healing, digestive-soothing, antibacterial ingredient that is utilized in Ayurvedic medicine.

What is castor oil used for today? As explained more below, it has natural stimulant laxative properties; has been shown to boost lymphatic, circulatory and immune health; and can help treat constipation, arthritis and more.

Castor oil is considered a vegetable oil that is pale yellow in color and is produced by crushing the seeds of the castor oil plant. Many of the benefits gained by using castor oil are a result of its chemical composition. Castor oil is a particular type of triglyceride fatty acid, with nearly 90 percent of its fatty acid substance is ricinoleic acid, which is an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid.Research studies have found that castor oil contains therapeutic components including fatty acids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, amino acids, terpenoids and phytosterols. These various compounds give the oil the following properties and potential health benefits:

Castor oil's anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent massage oil for arthritic joints, sore muscles, and inflammation of your nerves. The ricinoleic acid that castor oil contains possess the ability to boost anti-inflammatory properties within the body and is considered a safe remedy for arthritis pain.

One of the major reasons castor oil has strong immune-enhancing effects is because it supports the body’s lymphatic system. The most significant role of the lymphatic system, which is spread throughout the whole body in small tubular structures, is that it absorbs and removes excess fluids, proteins and waste materials from our cells.

The lymphatic system also impacts the circulatory and digestive systems, which is why the oil is sometimes used to support heart health and resolve issues like constipation.

Applying castor oil to dry or irritated skin can help to discourage dryness and keep it well moisturized, since it prevents water loss.

It can also help with wound and pressure ulcer healing thanks to its moisturizing as well as antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. 

Lab studies have shown that castor oil is effective against many types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. 

Castor oil is a popular way to relieve constipation. The various components in the natural constipation remedy act as a powerful laxative, stimulating both the small and large intestines and purging the colon walls, allowing impacted fecal matter to move through the colon. The fatty acids in the castor oil also work to prevent liquid from being absorbed by the intestinal tract, helping the bowel to retain its moisture, which allows it to pass through the colon easier.

As a natural antibacterial agent, castor oil works similarly to coconut oil for boosting skin health. It also makes a great general skin moisturizer and anti-inflammatory blemish treatment.

Just like coconut oil benefits your hair, using castor oil may help your hair grow faster, thicker, stronger and shinier.

Because it can improve blood circulation to your follicles, it may help to speed up hair growth.

Castor oil is a natural remedy and has been deemed safe to use in limited amounts. However, you may still experience some mild to moderate symptoms if you take too much of it or consume it for an extended period.

Before applying a significant amount of castor oil to your skin or ingesting it, determine if you are allergic to it by conducting a patch test. Place a small amount of castor oil on your forearm and let it sit for 24 hours. If you have any reaction, even if it is slight redness or itching, avoid using castor oil for any reason.

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Castor Oil: A Centuries-Old Remedy with Enduring Benefits

For thousands of years, castor oil has been revered as a versatile and powerful natural remedy. This unassuming oil, derived from the castor bean plant, has stood the test of time and continues to be a staple in many households and natural health practices.

The reasons for castor oil's enduring popularity are manifold. Packed with ricinoleic acid, this oil possesses remarkable anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. From soothing digestive issues to promoting skin health, castor oil has proven itself time and time again as a reliable ally in supporting overall wellbeing.

What makes castor oil so compelling is its sheer versatility. Whether applied topically or ingested, this oil can address a wide range of concerns, from constipation and menstrual cramps to joint pain and even skin conditions like eczema. Its ability to penetrate deep into the skin and tissues makes it a powerful tool for promoting circulation and lymphatic drainage.

As more people seek natural solutions to their health concerns, the allure of castor oil only continues to grow. With its rich history, scientific backing, and practical applications, it's no wonder this humble oil has remained a go-to remedy for generations. Incorporating castor oil into your wellness routine may just be the key to unlocking a healthier, more vibrant you.

**Photo credit Dr. Axe